I hope that my campaign message of sustainable economic development, finding housing solutions for homeless and at-risk families, resonated with you and will be addressed by our city’s government. My advocacy does not end here, I will continue to serve the city as a Planning Commissioner and support efforts that lead to a stronger and vibrant community. I am honored by the support that I received from my family – near and far--, friends, neighbors, city and county leaders, the Democratic party, LGBTQI, and labor union organizations. There is still so much to be done, and I am excited to continue my work in Watsonville. I’ll see you around town!

I also want to wish Francisco Estrada well in his new role as City Council and Mayor and thank him for his affability during the election, that will serve him well. Best of luck to you, Paco, and your wife.

-Jenny

News

Jenny T. Sarmiento
After a career in social services and violence prevention, Bolivia-to-California transplant Sarmiento is running for the open District 4 seat on a platform of conscientious economic development. Sarmiento, a Watsonville planning commissioner, hopes to encourage an uptick in interest from new businesses while bolstering technical support and resources available to existing small, often Latino-owned businesses. “We have to be cautious that we don’t become so gentrified that we lose the culture of the town,” she says. Addressing homelessness is also top of mind for Sarmiento, who suggests pairing social workers with police to improve outreach, as the city has done to encourage farm workers to report crimes, despite “the ICE situation.”

I emigrated with my family from Bolivia at the age of 12. As a working single parent, I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Psychology from California State University – Fullerton.

I believe in giving back to the community that opened its arms to me twenty years ago, as a social service professional. As a lifelong advocate for children, youth and families, I have always believed that a good education is an economic equalizer. I also believe, to achieve that, families need to live in a safe, healthy, and welcoming community.

As an executive director of local nonprofits, I served on several committees to address school dropout and gang prevention; mental health and substance use services; and other public health issues, such as violence prevention.

Currently, I serve on the Watsonville Planning Commission, where I have advocated for new policies, and businesses to improve Watsonville’s economic and housing vitality.

As your Watsonville City Council Member, I will work for youth and families, help increase employment opportunities, build a safe and healthy community, advocate for affordable housing, and defend our beautiful wetlands.

Thank you so much for joining our Watsonville City Council Campaign’s Meet & Support!! I certainly felt love and support from all that attended and from those who sent me their kind words of encouragement.

It was a beautiful and sunny afternoon, made even better with your presence and support. I want to thank all those who spoke on my behalf and Isaac Rodriguez and The Ville for the music they provided. And, as always, Jalisco’s patio was a great venue to meet and and talk with you all.

Thank you, to the many who raised their hands to volunteer for canvasing and future events, you can further assist us by signing up here.

I’m grateful and honored to have your friendship and support.
In Community,
Jenny